Robert Sachs

In the tradition of Buddhism, there is enlightened reality, NIRVANA, and conditioned, confused reality, SAMSARA. As there are laws and methods that help one to attain the awakened, enlightened state of being, the "Nirvancic" mind and being, there are also laws that govern the confusion of conditioned existence that most of us wallow in.

That is why it comes as no surprise that a runaway balloon in Colorado and the discovery that it was a publicity stunt dominate the weekends news cycle. What better way to cover up the revelation that the US Secretary of Treasury, Timothy Geitner, was aware of the bonuses that were going to be paid out to bank executives with the bailout funds, care of the US taxpayer.

When seeking change, if we are still taking too much "refuge" - that is still hold onto - in a simplistic utopian candyland, we shall always be disappointed and lose traction in being able to make positive change.

So, expect stuff like this continue. The depth to which it goes is a mere reflection of our confused tendency to chose self-preservation as the only way to aim our intentions and actions. Until the end, this clinging will always be our worse enemy.